Vernon, B.C.’s Kindness Meter program suffers ‘steady decline’ of donations – Okanagan

The City of Vernon, BC, wants to remind the public that “a little kindness goes a long way” as donations to the Kindness Meter program continue to decline.

The program began in 2016 when Vernon installed five orange counters in the downtown core to give people a chance to donate their spare change.

Donations are collected and given to local organizations that serve the underprivileged and homeless population in the community.

“Since 2016, Vernon residents have generously donated thousands of dollars to benefit a number of local organizations serving those in need,” the City of Vernon press release said.

Since 2016, Kindness Meter donations have been distributed to the following organizations:

• 2016 – Salvation Army Food Bank $1,863.82.
• 2017 – Obersaal Mission $1,798.68.
• 2018 – North Okanagan Youth and Family Services $672.47.
• 2019 – Vernon Community Dental Access Center $711.10.
• 2020 – Archway Society for Domestic Peace $389.16.
• 2021 – People Place Society $318.91.
• 2022 – Salvation Army Food Bank $266.

All money raised stays in Vernon, but donations have declined in recent years, according to the city. The mayor hopes this reminder will spark an upsurge in donations.

“Many people in our community are looking for a way to give back, but they don’t always know how to do it. The Kindness Meter program is another opportunity for that giving,” said Mayor Victor Cumming.

“This program assists our nonprofit community with much-needed and timely funds to help with services for those less fortunate.”

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Vernon installs “Kindness Meter”

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